10 Biggest Expenses in a Couple's First Year

Now that you're married, it's time to think about other grown-up, if less sexy, things — like insurance and wills. If you don't have health insurance, the Affordable Care Act has made it easier for individuals to get it — and you'll pay a penalty if you don't. If one or both of you have access to health insurance through your employer, take a look at the plans. You may be able to save money by moving one of you to the other's plan. Read the policy information carefully, though, especially if one of you has a preexisting condition or if you're planning to get pregnant.

If you're young, both of you are working and you aren't planning to have kids — at least any time soon — you may want to put off getting life insurance. It becomes essential if you have children and/or a non-working spouse. If you think you need life insurance, there are many factors to consider, including income and expenses — both monthly and major — such as college tuition and health care. Talk to professionals who can help you calculate the amount of life insurance you need to ensure your family's quality of life in the event of the unthinkable. If you have life insurance already, be sure to change your beneficiary designations to include your new spouse.

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Now is also the time to write or rewrite your will, naming your spouse as your beneficiary. Talk with an attorney who can help you draft a will to be sure your and your loved one are both taken care of.